How to Port Your Phone Number to a New Carrier

Everything you need to know about transferring your number — and how to save hundreds in the process.

Quick Summary

Porting moves your phone number from one carrier to another. You need your account number, transfer PIN, and ZIP code from your current carrier. Take those to the new carrier's store and they handle the rest. Takes about an hour. Your old plan cancels automatically.

What Information You Need

Before heading to the new carrier, gather these four pieces of information from your current carrier:

Phone number

The number you want to port to the new carrier

Account number

Found in your carrier app, account settings, or by calling customer service

Transfer PIN

A temporary code that authorizes the port — generate it in your carrier app or by calling

Billing ZIP code

The ZIP code on file with your current carrier account

Step-by-Step Porting Process

Gather your account info

Log into your current carrier app or call customer service to get your account number, transfer PIN, and billing ZIP.

Choose your new carrier and plan

Pick the carrier you want to switch to. Check their current promotions — porting a number often qualifies you for free phones and bill credits.

Visit the new carrier

Go to a store or start the process online. Tell them you want to "port in" your existing number.

Provide your porting details

Give the rep your phone number, account number, transfer PIN, and ZIP. They handle the rest.

Wait for activation

Your new line activates within minutes to hours. Your old carrier account closes automatically once the port completes.

Mistakes to Avoid

Don't cancel your old plan first. If you cancel before porting, you lose the number. Always port first — the old account closes automatically.

Don't confuse your account PIN with your transfer PIN. Your regular 4-digit account PIN is different from the transfer PIN needed for porting. Generate a transfer PIN specifically for the port.

Don't wait too long. Transfer PINs expire (usually within 7 days). Get your info and visit the new carrier within a day or two.

Don't Want to Port Your Personal Number?

You don't have to use your own number. A port number is a pre-activated number you buy for $14 to qualify for switch deals without touching your personal line. Delivered to your email in minutes.

Common Questions

How long does porting take?

In-store ports typically complete within 30-60 minutes. The new line activates immediately, and the number fully transfers within a few hours. Online ports can take 1-2 business days.

Will I lose service during the port?

There may be a brief interruption (a few minutes to a few hours) as the number transfers. Your old carrier line deactivates once the port completes. Plan to do this when a short gap in service is acceptable.

Can I port a landline number?

Yes, but landline ports take longer — typically 5-10 business days. Most carrier switch promotions accept landline ports, but check with the destination carrier to confirm.

What if my old carrier charges an early termination fee?

Some carriers charge ETFs if you leave mid-contract. However, many carriers (like T-Mobile) offer to pay off your existing balance when you switch. Ask about trade-in and payoff programs.

Do I need to cancel my old plan first?

No — do NOT cancel before porting. Porting automatically closes the line on your old carrier. If you cancel first, you lose the number and it can't be ported.

What's a transfer PIN?

A transfer PIN is a temporary code your current carrier generates to authorize the port. It's different from your account PIN. Most carriers let you generate one in their app or by calling customer service.

Related Guides

What Is a Port Number?

Learn what port numbers are, how they work, and why carriers require them.

How Porting Works

Step-by-step guide to using a port number to save $200-$1,300 on your next phone.

Free Phones When You Switch

See which phones carriers are giving away right now and how to qualify.

Today's Active Deals

Browse all current switch carrier deals across T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and more.

Ready to Switch?

See today's best carrier deals, or get a port number delivered in minutes.

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